Three cheers to FDR library and Bennett

To the newly remodeled Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park for its June 30 rededication. At more than 70 years old, it was the first presidential library and was built from 1939 to 1940.

The library houses exhibits and documents that tell the story of not only President Roosevelt's life, but also a vital part of our nation's history. Exhibits encompass a variety of historical events, including the Great Depression, the New Deal, World War II and the subsequent Japanese-American internment. The renovations include plenty of interactives to give visitors the chance to be the "decision-maker."

Roosevelt, born in Hyde Park, assumed the presidency during the Great Depression, and steered the American people through that difficult time, reassuring them that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Though he inherited the presidency at America's most economically dismal time, Roosevelt ushered in the New Deal, which revitalized the nation's infrastructure and brought jobs to many who were unemployed.

Though Roosevelt left behind a great legacy, some of his presidential decisions were controversial. World War II and Japan's bombing of Pearl Harbor led to Roosevelt's decision to force thousands of Japanese-American citizens into internment camps for the duration of the war.

The library also offers a glimpse into the personal lives of Franklin and his wife, Eleanor. Exhibits include scrapbooks, Roosevelt's model ship collection, records of his health issues and proof of Roosevelt's marital infidelities.

Roosevelt, like the many presidents who came both before and after him, achieved much for this nation.The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, however, does not seek to mythologize Roosevelt, but give us a more intimate understanding of the former president, and the era in which he lived.

To Tony Bennett, who performed a concert June 29 at the Ulster Performing Arts Center in Kingston. Proceeds from the performance are being used to fund repairs and renovations at UPAC, owned by the Bardavon 1869 Opera House.

This year's concert was the second time Bennett has donated performance proceeds to the Bardavon; the first was in 2012.

The Bardavon is a nonprofit organization that, in addition to traditional performances, offers residencies and other educational programs for local students who are interested in the arts.

Thanks to Tony Bennett's generosity, the Bardavon and UPAC can continue to enrich the local community.

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Three cheers to FDR library and Bennett

Three cheers to the newly remodeled Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park for its June 30 rededication. At more than 70 years old, it was the first presidential library

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